Association for Behavior Analysis International

Behavior analysts often go on to open businesses that provide behavior analytic services to a variety of populations. Many times, this puts the behavior analyst in the unique position of business owner in addition to service provider. Several ethical issues may arise when put in this situation over the course of business operations. Panelists will discuss these key ethical issues with several examples highlighted throughout. Behavior analysts will discuss past experience with opening their own business as well as their thoughts on the process. Additionally, information will be shared from the perspective of a newly certified practitioner about what to look for in a potential employment site, what are some things to do to avoid being taken advantage of, and advice for newly certified practitioners navigating the sea of employment opportunities. The panel will conclude with the opportunity for audience members to ask questions regarding topics that were discussed, as well as related topics.

Graduating from a doctoral program signals the start of new adventures and challenges, and options for developing ones career. Assuming the role of a post-doctoral researcher is one option to consider upon graduation. One purpose of a postdoctoral appointment is to gain specialized expertise in a particular area that may prepare one for their career in that area. We formed a panel of post-doctoral scholars from an applied field of behavior analysis. The presenters come from multiple institutions and have unique experiences with regard to applying behavior analysis in their respective positions. In particular, the presenters have experience with severe problem behavior and drug abstinence programs. The goal of this panel discussion is for the invited presenters to provide insight into their experiences, their advisors expectations, and their goals following their term. At the end of their presentations, the panel will provide an opportunity for the attendees to ask questions in a question-answer format.

Earning grants is a high achievement in research-based academic careers. Moreover, some careers in academia carry a grant requirement for tenure. Given this contingency, behavior analysts must propose and conduct research that is appealing to a broad audience. Both basic and applied research must be innovative, have a significant impact on the human condition, and be described in a manner that is easily consumed by diverse groups to achieve the grant-gaining x-factor. The current emphasis on earning grants may seem intimidating for new behavior analysts. In an effort to decrease some of the elusiveness of the task, expert panelists will discuss their experience with navigating the grant world. Each panelist will discuss how they entered the grant scene, how their grant writing has evolved over time, and how they communicate behavior principles to funding agencies. They will provide their top tips and recommendations on grantsmanship. Finally, the audience will have an opportunity to ask questions to panelists.